Top Recommendations for Cafés in Melbourne
Melbourne, Australia, is widely recognized as one of the world’s coffee capitals, boasting an array of trendy cafés offering exceptional coffee and delightful food. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, exploring Melbourne’s café culture is a must. Here are some top recommendations for cafés to visit in this vibrant city:
1. Proud Mary
📍 Location: 172 Oxford Street, Collingwood
☕ Specialty: Single-origin coffee and house blends
Proud Mary is a favorite for coffee aficionados. Known for its dedication to sourcing and roasting exceptional beans, this café offers a premium coffee experience. Pair your coffee with their delectable breakfast options, such as smashed avocado toast or ricotta hotcakes.
2. Higher Ground
📍 Location: 650 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne
☕ Specialty: All-day brunch and artisanal coffee
Higher Ground is a stunning café with a unique, industrial-chic design. The spacious interior is perfect for enjoying their creative dishes like the spiced cauliflower or the house-made granola. Their coffee menu includes classics as well as signature brews.
3. Seven Seeds
📍 Location: 114 Berkeley Street, Carlton
☕ Specialty: Micro-roastery coffee
Seven Seeds is a pioneer in Melbourne’s specialty coffee scene. With a focus on sustainable sourcing, the café offers an extensive range of coffee brewed to perfection. The menu also features light meals and pastries to complement your drink.
4. The Kettle Black
📍 Location: 50 Albert Road, South Melbourne
☕ Specialty: Upscale brunch and premium coffee
This beautifully designed café blends classic and modern elements. The menu features luxurious dishes such as kingfish sashimi and house-made coconut chia pudding. Their coffee, sourced from local roasters, completes the upscale dining experience.
5. Axil Coffee Roasters
📍 Location: Multiple locations, including Hawthorn and Chadstone
☕ Specialty: Locally roasted coffee and seasonal menus
Axil Coffee Roasters is celebrated for its consistently high-quality coffee and food. From creamy lattes to flat whites, their drinks are crafted with precision. The food menu includes favorites like eggs Benedict and crispy fried chicken burgers.
6. Industry Beans
📍 Location: 62 Rose Street, Fitzroy
☕ Specialty: Innovative coffee and modern brunch
Industry Beans combines coffee innovation with a sleek aesthetic. Their signature bubble coffee and cold brew options are perfect for adventurous drinkers. The brunch menu features standout items such as the coffee-rubbed wagyu burger.
7. Brother Baba Budan
📍 Location: 359 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne
☕ Specialty: Small-batch coffee
Named after a legendary coffee figure, Brother Baba Budan is a cozy café with a focus on delivering top-notch coffee. The minimalist décor and friendly vibe make it a great spot for a quick coffee break.
8. St. Ali
📍 Location: 12-18 Yarra Place, South Melbourne
☕ Specialty: Specialty coffee and gourmet dishes
St. Ali is a cornerstone of Melbourne’s café culture. The café roasts its own beans and serves a diverse menu of breakfast and lunch options, including gluten-free and vegan-friendly choices.